For more than a decade, the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs has brought together practitioners, investors, funders, and researchers working to strengthen small and growing businesses in emerging markets. That work continues.
As the international development sector evolves, so too must ANDE. Changing global dynamics and funding priorities are reshaping how organizations across the sector operate. To keep ANDE strong for the long term, we are transitioning to a digital-first operating model. ANDE’s mission and membership community will continue, organized around a leaner structure.
Going forward, ANDE will continue serving as a global membership network by connecting members, convening leaders, and sharing knowledge across the community. We’ll also keep building the partnerships that strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems around the world. By concentrating our resources on virtual convening and knowledge sharing, we can keep supporting our members while building a more sustainable organization.
This transition also brings a significant change to how ANDE has operated for much of its history. Over the coming months, ANDE’s regional chapters will close, and field staffing will be reduced accordingly.
These decisions affect colleagues who have dedicated years to building ANDE, and we are grateful for everything they have contributed. We are also mindful that this means a reduced on-the-ground presence in many of the communities we have had the privilege to work alongside. Those relationships have shaped what ANDE is, and we look forward to continuing to connect, collaborate, and learn from our members and partners in new ways.
The Aspen Institute remains committed to ANDE’s mission and will support the organization through this transition. ANDE’s greatest strength has always been its global community of members and partners, and by focusing our resources there, we can keep the work going.
We’ll continue sharing updates and new opportunities to engage as ANDE evolves. We look forward to building this next chapter together with our members, partners, and supporters around the world.
Thank you to everyone who has helped build this community, and to everyone who will help carry it forward.
FAQ
What does this mean for me as an ANDE member?
Your membership remains active, with no action needed on your part. ANDE will continue connecting members, convening leaders, and sharing knowledge across the community, and we’ll keep creating opportunities for collaboration. Some programs and services will evolve as we move to a digital-first model, and we’ll share details as new programming is announced.
Will ANDE continue hosting events and convenings?
Yes. Bringing our community together remains core to ANDE’s mission. Expect ongoing virtual programming, plus select in-person gatherings and partner events. We’ll share specifics as plans are finalized.
What happens to ANDE’s regional chapters?
As part of this transition, ANDE’s regional chapters will close by the end of the year as we explore a leaner, more effective operating model to support members. More details around this will be shared soon.
How will ANDE communicate future updates?
Through our blog, newsletters, and direct member communications as the transition progresses. We encourage members and partners to stay connected as we share more about future programming and engagement opportunities.
Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
Current ANDE members, please contact ANDE.membership@aspeninstitute.org.
Partners and funders, please contact Kate Scaife Diaz at kate.scaifediaz@aspeninstitute.org.